How to Collect Your DNA Sample
Step 1 — Receive Your Kit
Your DesigNA DNA collection kit will arrive within 2–3 working days of placing your order. Inside you will find everything you need: a labelled buccal swab in a sealed container, a consent form, an information leaflet, a UK prepaid Royal Mail return envelope, and your order receipt. Please keep your receipt safe, this contains your order reference number.
Step 2 — Read and Sign the Consent Form
Before collecting any sample, please read the consent form carefully. The person providing the DNA sample must give their informed consent by signing where indicated. We are unable to process any sample without a valid, signed consent form.
If the sample is being taken from a child under the age of 16, please refer to our FAQ page for guidance on parental consent requirements.
Step 3 — Prepare for Sampling
To ensure the highest possible sample quality, please follow these simple preparation steps before collecting your swab:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the swab
- Avoid smoking, eating, or drinking anything other than water for at least one hour before sampling
- Rinse your mouth with clean water immediately before taking the swab
These precautions prevent food residue or contaminants from affecting the DNA extraction process at our ISO-accredited laboratory.
Step 4 - Collect Your Swab
Open the swab container by breaking the seal on the lid. Remove the swab carefully – do not touch the cotton tip at any point, as this may introduce contaminating DNA.
Insert the swab into your mouth and press the cotton tip firmly against the inside of your cheek. Rub in a circular motion for 8–10 rotations to collect a sufficient cell sample. Replace the swab securely into its container and press the lid firmly into place.
For babies and young children: it is often easier to gently rub the cotton tip between the lower lip and the gum line rather than inside the cheek.
Step 5 — Post Your Sample
Place the sealed swab container and your signed consent form into the prepaid return envelope. Post your sample as soon as possible after collection — ideally the same day — to maintain sample integrity. Buccal swabs are stable at room temperature, but prompt posting ensures the best results.
Keep your order receipt in a safe place. Your order number is required if you need to contact us about your sample or order status.
Step 6 — We Handle Everything Else
Once your sample arrives at our facility, we will send a confirmation notification to the ordering party. Your swab will then be passed to our partner laboratory, Complement Genomics Ltd who are a fully UKAS ISO-accredited DNA profiling laboratory. Your unique genetic profile will be generated using professional-grade STR analysis.
Once your profile is confirmed, our craftspeople will begin handcrafting your DesigNA necklace. Your finished piece, along with your personalised certificate of authenticity, will be delivered within 7-14 working days of sample receipt.
